Rail

MBTA’s proposed commuter rail changes anger riders

WESTBOROUGH, Mass. — Under service cut proposals by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) designed to eliminate $169 million in debt, commuter rail service on the Boston-Framingham-Worcester line would be cut significantly and riders would see fare increases of up to 40%, WestboroughPatch reported.

At a recent hearing the MBTA held to hear riders’ concerns before making a final decision on how to eliminate the deficit for fiscal year 2013, attendees said the proposed fare hikes present a “major hardship” For the full story, click here.

Economic development within one-half mile of the system has been stimulated by ridership that has exceeded original projections. Valley Metro began compiling development activity since construction started in 2005 as part of an economic development database.

The new bike car contains 14 racks that will provide more room to maneuver bicycles on and off the train. A set of seats were removed from the lower level of the vehicle to make room for the bike racks.